Sr. Cytogenetics Technologist

Quest Diagnostics•Chantilly, VA

2d•$43 - $58•Onsite

About The Position

Performs difficult and complex tests that require independent judgment and responsibility in cytogenetics subspecialties for which the technologist is qualified through education, training, and experience. The role handles complex laboratory testing, reviews the work of other technologists, supports quality control and troubleshooting, and may assume a leadership role within the laboratory. The position is in Chantilly, Virginia, and is scheduled Sunday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Depending on assignment, duties may include tissue culture, microscopic and post-microscopic analysis, karyotype preparation, FISH or array testing and analysis, and specimen processing for fluorescence in situ hybridization or microarray. The technologist documents and maintains testing records, applies correct ISCN nomenclature, follows testing methodologies and quality standards, and meets established turnaround-time, productivity, and quality requirements. The role also supports training, procedure development and validation, research and implementation of testing methodologies, regulatory inspections, and compliance with laboratory safety requirements. The position requires a bachelor’s degree in science and current ASCP Cytogenetics certification (ASCP-CG). Candidates must have at least five years of full-time experience in a CAP- or CLIA-accredited clinical cytogenetics laboratory; a degree or certificate from an accredited cytogenetics training program may be substituted for the year of experience. Compensation is listed as $43.29–$58.17 per hour. Successful candidates may be eligible for annual performance bonus compensation.

Requirements

Minimum of five years of full-time experience in a CAP- or CLIA-accredited clinical cytogenetics laboratory; a degree or certificate from an accredited cytogenetics training program may be substituted for the year of experience.
Bachelor’s degree in science (required).
Current ASCP Certification in Cytogenetics (ASCP-CG) (required).
Comprehensive theoretical and operational knowledge of pre-analytical or analytical cytogenetics testing.
Knowledge of organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Proven leadership skills and peer respect.
Manual dexterity and excellent pattern-recognition skills.
Detail-oriented, able to work independently, establish priorities, and handle several tasks simultaneously.
Interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and clients.
Communication skills to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
Ability to handle client information confidentially.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.
Foreign-educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF; U.S.-educated candidates must provide a detailed original transcript.
Ability to meet the physical demands described, including lifting and carrying objects as specified, extended sitting or standing, and use of laboratory instruments requiring significant manual dexterity.

Responsibilities

Perform tissue culture of assigned specimen types, including culture initiation, maintenance, harvest, slide preparation, and staining, when assigned.
Perform microscopic and post-microscopic analyses of assigned specimen types and prepare karyotypes using established cytogenetic laboratory procedures, when assigned.
Perform FISH or array testing and analysis on assigned specimen types, maintaining appropriate quality-control and maintenance records, when assigned.
Process specimens for FISH or microarray, including slide preparation, pretreatment, hybridization, post-wash, and counterstaining, and perform accurate microscopic and post-microscopic analysis when assigned.
Perform difficult or complex laboratory testing and review the work of other technologists.
Document and maintain tissue culture and microscopy analysis records completely and accurately; document chromosome or FISH abnormalities using correct ISCN nomenclature and best assessment of breakpoints.
Ensure accurate specimen processing and test results by adhering to testing methodologies and quality standards.
Follow analytical schedules to maintain turnaround times, including for STAT or critical results to clients.
Support quality control, troubleshoot complex problems, process and analyze complex cases, provide customer support, and complete special projects.
Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional, and sanitary condition.
Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate.
Assist in training other laboratory personnel, students, and fellows.
Assist in developing and validating procedures and participate in research, development, and implementation of new testing methodologies or modifications.
Adhere to CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, and laboratory safety requirements, including use of required personal protective equipment and controls.
Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections when needed.
Assume a leadership role within the assigned group and laboratory; may assume lead responsibilities in a supervisor’s absence if qualified and delegated.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost Blueprint for Wellness health assessment program.
healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one MyDay off.
FinFit financial coaching and services.
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Life and disability insurance, with buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.